Splitting your screen on a Mac can be a game-changer for productivity. Imagine having to switch back and forth between windows – so frustrating, right? Well, with a few quick shortcuts, you can have two apps side by side with no hassle at all. Let’s dive into how you can do just that.
Step by Step Tutorial: Mac Split Screen Shortcut
Before we get started, let’s understand what we’re trying to achieve. Splitting your screen allows you to work on two apps simultaneously without the need to switch between them. This is especially useful when you’re referencing material from one app while working in another. Ready to become a multitasking wizard? Let’s go!
Step 1: Open the first application
Open the first application that you want to use in split-screen mode.
When you have the first app open, make sure it’s the active window. You can tell it’s active because the menu bar at the top of the screen will show the app’s name.
Step 2: Click and hold the full-screen button
In the top-left corner of the window, click and hold the full-screen button (the green circle).
As you hold the button, the window will shrink, and you’ll see your desktop background. Now, you can drag the window to either the left or right side of your screen.
Step 3: Choose the side of the screen
Drag the app to the left or right side of the screen, depending on where you want it to be.
Once you’ve chosen a side, release the full-screen button. The app will automatically resize to fill half of your screen.
Step 4: Open the second application
Open the second application that you want to use in split-screen mode.
You can open it from your Dock, Applications folder, or use Spotlight Search to find it quickly.
Step 5: Click the second app to fill the other half of the screen
The second app should automatically fill the other half of the screen.
If it doesn’t, you may need to click on the app to make it active. It should then snap into place, completing your split-screen setup.
After completing these steps, you’ll have two apps open side by side, each taking up half of your screen space. You can adjust the size of each window by clicking and dragging the divider between them. Now, you’re all set to work more efficiently!
Tips for Using Mac Split Screen Shortcut
- If you want to exit split-screen mode, simply move your cursor to the top of the screen and click the green full-screen button again.
- Remember that not all apps support split-screen mode. If you’re having trouble, check if the app is compatible.
- Use Mission Control to see all your open windows at once. Swipe up with three or four fingers on your trackpad, or press F3 on your keyboard.
- If you have multiple desktops open, you can use split-screen mode on any of them.
- Customize your experience by adjusting the size of each window to fit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if the app doesn’t support split-screen?
If an app doesn’t support split-screen, you won’t be able to use it in this mode. Look for updates from the developer or consider alternative apps that offer similar functionality.
Can I use split-screen with more than two apps?
Unfortunately, Mac’s split-screen feature only allows for two apps to be used side by side. However, you can use multiple desktops to organize different pairs of apps.
How do I adjust the size of the windows in split-screen mode?
Simply click and drag the divider between the two windows to adjust their size. You can make one larger than the other if needed.
Can I use split-screen mode with an external monitor?
Yes, you can use split-screen mode on your Mac’s built-in display or any external monitor connected to your Mac.
What’s the difference between split-screen and Mission Control?
Split-screen allows you to work in two apps simultaneously, while Mission Control gives you an overview of all open windows and allows you to organize them into separate desktops.
Summary
- Open the first application
- Click and hold the full-screen button
- Choose the side of the screen
- Open the second application
- Click the second app to fill the other half of the screen
Conclusion
Mastering the Mac split screen shortcut can significantly boost your productivity and streamline your workflow. Whether you’re a student juggling research and writing papers, a professional comparing data sets, or simply someone who likes to chat while watching videos, split-screen is a feature that can make your digital life much easier.
Remember, not all apps will work with split-screen, but for those that do, the time savings and convenience can’t be beaten. Plus, if you ever feel cramped, you can always use multiple desktops to expand your digital workspace.
So, give it a try, and before you know it, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it. Remember, practice makes perfect, and once you get the hang of it, using the Mac split screen shortcut will be second nature. Happy multitasking!